Ernesto Valverde's lovely goodbye letter

They may be able to blame him for the team's failure to perform in Europe, but not for the fact that he gave his all for the club. Ernesto Valverde's sacking as Barcelona coach, announced by the club's official social media, showed the gracefulness of the coach and how he conducted himself right until the very end.

Here is how the coach said goodbye:

"Dear Barca fans,

My time as FC Barcelona coach has come to an end. It has been an intense two and a half years right from the start. In that time I have enjoyed some joyful moments celebrating victories and trophies but also others that have been tough and difficult. However, above all I would like to highlight my experience with the fans and the affection showed towards me during my time as coach.

I would like to thank the president Josep Maria Bartomeu and the Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to coach the first team and their confidence during all this time. I would also like to thank all the people I have worked with at the Club for their support and how they treated me during the two and a half seasons, especially those who work in and around the first team and with whom I have shared so many moments at the Ciutat Esportiva and during away trips. Of course, I would like to thank the players for all their efforts that have allowed us to claim four trophies together. From this day, I wish them all the luck in the world and to the new coach Quique Setien also.

All the best to everyone.

Visca Barça and Visca Catalonia.

Ernesto Valverde"

 

January 14, 2020